With An Airport In Place, Nsulu Community Of Isialangwa, Abia State Set For Global Economic Emancipation
By- Charles Chinekezi.
Following the negative tantrums being raised by a few opposition politicians and mischief makers from the Isialangwa North Community where the Abia State Government magnanimously located the construction of an airport project aimed at changing the economic cum social narrative of the state, the Governor Alex Otti administration has further engaged the Nsulu Community to secure their full support for the achievement of such a landmark development infrastructure in their land in the esteemed interest of the larger South-Eastern Nigeria in general and the Nsulu Isialangwa North community in particular.
This is because the selfish interest of a few greedy politicians cannot deny the Nsulu Isialangwa North LGA the best life-changing opportunity of a lifetime for both indigenes and settlers. Now recall what the siting of an airport did for the Umuowa and Ngo okpalla communities of Imo State since the Imo Airport was built there. Recall what an Airport project has bestowed on the Emene Community of Enugu State since an airport was built there several decades ago. Also recall what the siting of a university in Nsukka by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe has done for that community since the First Republic in Nigeria before recalling what the siting of the Igbeniedion University at Okada Wonderland of Edo State has done for that community since its commencement.
The above examples are mentioned here because it is globally agreed that airports and universities remains some of the best development projects amidst others that could be conceived by any government at all times and that is why it is absurd and extremely ridiculous to conjecture that an honourable and public spirited Governor like Dr. Alex Otti is intending to use such magnanimity for the purposes of community land grabbing in a nearby community to where he was born. That insinuation is detestable and unacceptable from a few persons who would rather prefer to blind impoverish their people for time and eternity. God forbid however.
The proposed Abia State Airport project in Nsulu, Isialangwa North Local Government Area, promises to bring substantial economic, social, and cultural benefits, especially when considered alongside the existing Nsulu Games Village and the planned Nollywood Film Village by the current administration. The airport will facilitate improved connectivity, attracting investors and businesses to the region. Its proximity to the Nsulu Games Village and Nollywood Film Village creates a synergy that can establish Nsulu as a hub for tourism, sports, and entertainment. This will stimulate local trade, increase hospitality and retail opportunities, and generate substantial revenue for the state.
The Nsulu Games Village already attracts athletes and sports enthusiasts, while the Nollywood Film Village will likely draw filmmakers, actors, and tourists. The airport will make these destinations more accessible, significantly increasing their patronage and boosting cultural tourism in the area. This would position Abia State as a leading cultural and creative hub in Nigeria. The combined projects will create thousands of jobs during construction and operational phases. The airport itself will need aviation professionals, support staff, and ancillary services, while the film village and games village will require skilled workers, creatives, and support personnel. The synergy between these projects will also open avenues for vocational training and skill acquisition programs for locals.
With the Nollywood Film Village offering opportunities in film production and acting, and the airport opening up global connectivity, young people in Nsulu and beyond will find new avenues to showcase their talents. Sports enthusiasts will also benefit from the Games Village’s improved access and the expected growth of sporting events. The airport project will spur additional infrastructural development in the area, including better roads, power supply, and communication networks. These improvements will benefit the host communities directly, enhancing their quality of life and laying the groundwork for sustainable development.
The siting of an airport in Nsulu places Abia State strategically as a gateway for air travelers. Coupled with the state’s growing creative and sports industries, it positions Abia as a forward-thinking state ready to compete on a national and international stage. The proposed Abia State Airport, in conjunction with the Nsulu Games Village and Nollywood Film Village, represents a transformative opportunity for Isialangwa North and Abia State. By integrating these projects, the current administration under Governor Alex Otti is setting the stage for unparalleled growth in tourism, economic activity, and youth development, ensuring a lasting legacy of progress and prosperity for the state.
Development Potential of the Abia Airport Project for Abia State and South-Eastern Nigeria
The proposed Abia State Airport has immense development potential for the state and the broader South-Eastern region. Its strategic location and alignment with other developmental initiatives make it a catalyst for transformative growth. The airport will stimulate trade and commerce, attracting investments and industries to Abia. It will complement existing industrial hubs like Aba, boosting the export potential of locally made goods such as textiles, leather products, and machinery.
With improved accessibility, the airport will attract more tourists to Abia’s cultural and historical sites, such as the National War Museum in Umuahia and Arochukwu’s Slave Trade Route. This will create a thriving tourism sector, contributing significantly to the state’s revenue. From construction to operation, the airport will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Additionally, the demand for skilled workers in aviation and logistics will lead to the establishment of training programs and institutions, empowering the youth.
The airport will spur the development of roads, utilities, and other essential infrastructure around its location. This will improve the quality of life for the host communities and make Abia State a more attractive investment destination. An airport in Abia will make the state a critical node in global connectivity, facilitating the movement of people and goods. This aligns with Governor Alex Otti’s vision of making Abia a center for commerce and innovation. The airport will serve as a regional hub, enhancing connectivity within the South-East and neighboring regions. This will facilitate regional trade and create a synergy between the economic activities of states like Anambra, Enugu, Imo, and Ebonyi.
The South-East is known for its agricultural output. The airport will provide a platform for the efficient export of perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and flowers, enhancing the region’s agricultural value chain. The South-East is witnessing a rise in tech startups and creative industries. The airport will attract investors, innovators, and collaborators, fostering growth in these sectors and positioning the region as a hub for innovation. The South-East boasts rich cultural heritage and festivals, such as the Ofala Festival and the New Yam Festival. The airport will encourage more tourists to explore these cultural offerings, promoting regional identity and intercultural exchange.
The Abia airport will relieve pressure on existing airports in Enugu and Owerri, offering an alternative for travelers and boosting regional air transport efficiency.
The Abia State Airport project holds transformative potential, not just for the state but for the entire South-East region. It promises to foster economic growth, enhance connectivity, and open up new opportunities in agriculture, trade, tourism, and technology. Under Governor Alex Otti’s leadership, this ambitious project is poised to become a cornerstone of sustainable development, advancing prosperity and unity across Abia State and South-Eastern Nigeria. In a powerful demonstration of leadership and vision, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has successfully garnered the support of the people of Nsulu clan in Isialangwa North Local Government Area for the proposed Abia Airport project. Despite initial protests from a section of the host communities, the government’s proactive engagement has resolved concerns and unified the majority in favor of the transformative project.
The breakthrough came after a critical meeting between government officials and representatives of the host communities. Leading the charge was the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, who underscored the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency. “The government had already engaged the traditional rulers in the clan but decided to further engage the people to ensure they understand its intentions,” he said. This gesture reflects Governor Otti’s dedication to carrying everyone along in the state’s developmental journey. The protest from a small section of the Nsulu community stemmed from misinformation about the government’s intentions. Pastor Ajagba explained that the government’s aim is to implement developmental projects that benefit all, without compromising the community’s livelihood. By holding direct discussions and addressing concerns amicably, the administration has fostered trust and collaboration among the people.
“Our engagement is to ensure everyone has a clear view of the government’s intentions. No one is trying to destroy their source of livelihood,” Pastor Ajagba assured. The government has further committed to compensating affected members of the host communities, emphasizing fairness and equity. Representatives of the communities, including Dr. Jessy Odu and Mr. Kingsley Ukaegbu, expressed overwhelming support for the airport, citing its numerous economic benefits. Dr. Odu highlighted the transformative impact the project would have on the area, noting that it would spur economic activities, create jobs for the youth, and enhance the overall quality of life.
“It’s going to open up our land for real economic activities,” he stated. This vision aligns with Governor Otti’s broader goal of creating sustainable economic growth and prosperity across Abia State. Under Governor Otti’s leadership, Abia State has seen a renewed sense of purpose and inclusivity. The Governor’s ability to navigate sensitive issues and unite diverse stakeholders underscores his commitment to ensuring that every part of the state enjoys a sense of belonging.
The successful resolution of concerns in Nsulu serves as a testament to Governor Otti’s strategic approach to governance. By prioritizing dialogue, transparency, and fairness, he has not only paved the way for the realization of the Abia Airport but also strengthened community bonds. As preparations for the airport project progress, the people of Nsulu and the entire state can look forward to a brighter, more prosperous future under the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Otti. This achievement reflects the Governor’s unwavering determination to make Abia State a beacon of progress and unity in Nigeria.
Employment Creation Capacity of the Abia Airport Project for Local Communities
The Abia Airport Project in Nsulu, Isialangwa North Local Government Area, is a game-changer for the local communities, offering significant employment opportunities across multiple sectors. Its construction and eventual operation will catalyze direct, indirect, and induced job creation, transforming the economic landscape of the area. The construction phase of the airport will create numerous job opportunities for skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled workers within the host communities. These include: Jobs in earthworks, building construction, electrical installations, and plumbing, opportunities for operating and maintaining heavy machinery. Local businesses supplying building materials like sand, cement, and steel will benefit, creating secondary jobs. Roles to ensure site safety and manage supply chains phase alone could employ thousands of people, providing immediate economic relief to families in the area.
Once operational, the airport will sustain thousands of permanent jobs, including: positions such as pilots, air traffic controllers, maintenance engineers, and ground staff. Roles in management, ticketing, customer service, and human resources. Jobs for airport security, immigration officers, and customs officials. Businesses such as restaurants, shops, and lounges within the airport will require staff. The airport will generate employment beyond its premises by stimulating economic activities in related industries:
Taxi operators, bus drivers, and logistics companies will thrive due to increased movement of people and goods. Hotels, guesthouses, and travel agencies will experience growth, creating additional jobs. Local farmers can supply fresh produce to airport restaurants and for export purposes. Ongoing infrastructure upgrades and facility maintenance will provide consistent employment. The airport will attract vocational training programs to equip local youths with skills needed for aviation-related jobs. These programs will empower the younger population, enabling them to secure employment in technical and professional roles.
The presence of the airport will lead to the establishment of ancillary businesses like warehouses, logistics firms, and small enterprises catering to travelers and airport staff. These businesses will create a ripple effect, generating additional employment opportunities across the local economy. The Abia Airport Project has immense employment creation capacity for the local communities, both in the short and long term. By providing jobs during construction, operation, and in related industries, the project will improve living standards, reduce unemployment, and set the stage for sustainable economic growth in Nsulu and its environs. Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to ensuring inclusive development makes this project a beacon of hope for the local populace.
*Dr. Charles Chinekezi Is Professional Journalist And Chartered Management Professor (C.M.P.)*